SmartSynch Introduces Innovative 'DCX' Smart Grid Solution at DistribuTECH

IP-addressable device lets utilities spot-deploy demand response, distribution automation, stand-by generator control, power quality monitoring and other smart metering/smart grid applications.

Jackson, MS — February 3, 2009

At DistribuTECH 2009 today, SmartSynch introduced its compact and versatile Direct Connect eXternal (DCX) smart grid solution, a low-cost external interface capable of communicating via public wireless networks with any device on the electricity grid, from the substation to the meter, wherever remote communications and automation are needed. The IP-addressable DCX now enables utilities to quickly and affordably spot-deploy smart grid applications, including load profile and control, power quality monitoring, distribution automation and monitoring, stand-by generator/load control and steam monitoring; and support more homeowner-focused smart metering programs such as demand response, demand-side management and real-time pricing.

Capable of connecting to any Ethernet, RS232 or RS485 serial interface, the DCX serves as a “wireless pipe” capable of continuously transmitting and receiving data using any protocol or messaging scheme. Other features and benefits for utilities include low installation costs, multiple meter connectivity, modem flexibility, a wide range of AC input, a weather-proof enclosure, and ANSI lightning- and surge-proof certifications.

“At a time when the Obama administration is calling for nothing less than a complete overhaul of the nation’s electrical grid, this product represents an immediate and affordable way for utilities to begin taking action,” said Stephen Johnston, SmartSynch’s chief executive officer. “Our use of existing public wireless networks enables utilities to strategically deploy our solutions anywhere, in any quantity, and completely avoid building and maintaining a capital- and resource-intensive private network to communicate with their smart grid solutions once deployed.”

Johnston said SmartSynch customers are already using the DCX to perform a variety smart grid functions, including:

• remotely controlling commercial and industrial customers’ back-up generators during the summer, when load becomes critical, to shave ‘peak’ in real-time and avoid manual site visits to each generator;
• remotely retrieving energy and demand registers, power quality and interval data from residential meters to support demand response, demand-side management, time-of-use pricing and other in-home programs; and
• remotely monitoring steam levels under city streets, by communicating temperature and water-level data from manholes, to prevent steam trap backups.

SmartSynch has been the leading provider of smart metering solutions utilizing public wireless networks since the introduction of its first SmartMeter™ in 2000. SmartSynch’s solutions are fully certified to securely deliver smart grid data on the AT&T wireless network, and other major networks, enabling quicker, easier, more scalable and strategic deployments for utilities.

For more information, visit www.smartsynch.com. DistribuTECH attendees are invited to stop by Booth #2014 for a demonstration.

About SmartSynch
SmartSynch is changing the economics of the energy industry, helping utilities and their customers both manage their energy assets more efficiently for a stronger bottom line and pursue new revenue opportunities. Serving the IP-enabled intelligent metering and smart grid needs of 100 North American utilities and their customers, SmartSynch harnesses the power of existing public wireless networks to enable customers to realize a better, more immediate return on energy (ROE). In a competitive landscape where managing any business resource with real-time information is essential to survival, SmartSynch’s clean-tech innovations translate the data surrounding utility expenses into a critical new asset – actionable intelligence. For more information, contact Media Relations at 601-362-1780, or visit www.smartsynch.com.

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